Immunocompromised adults and those over 65 should receive a second dose of the latest COVID-19 vaccine, according to an official recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
On Wednesday, the CDC adopted guidance from its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, stating that the second dose should be administered six months after the initial dose. Additionally, the updated recommendations allow for “flexibility for additional doses” for adults who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, following consultation with their healthcare provider.
In late August, the Food and Drug Administration approved several updated COVID-19 vaccines for the fall and winter seasons of 2024-25, including those from Pfizer and Moderna. These updated vaccines are designed to provide protection against the omicron variant KP.2 strain of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and are expected to offer protection against other current strains as well.
CDC leadership advises everyone aged 6 months and older to receive the 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
COVID-19 cases saw a spike this summer, and health officials anticipate an increase again during the colder months.
